Enforcement still lacking on energy-efficient homes
James Debono The enforcement of laws that bind homebuilders to make their dwellings “energy-efficient” still depends on architects’ self-regulation, because no certification system of new houses exists three years after the laws came into being.
Although an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) became compulsory for almost all new homes after 2 January, 2009 through a second legal notice that brought Maltese law in line with the EU, the enforcement of these rules was further delayed by a number of technical hiccups.
Resources Minister George Pullicino claims the delay was caused by software problems on a programme to generate on-line calculations for the certification system.
In reply to a PQ by shadow environment minister Leo Brincat, Pullicino announced this problem had been resolved and the certification system should be in place by next April.
Despite the delay in the introduction the EPC system, a legal obligation already exists for buildings to be constructed according to minimum requirements, namely the Minimum Requirements for the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations.
According to these rules all new buildings have to be designed and constructed to secure the conservation of fuel and power, by limiting heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
All new buildings also have to incorporate proper storage for rainwater run-off.
Through these regulations, every architect is personally responsible to ensure that any new building conforms to these minimum requirements. MEPA also refers large-scale developments to the Malta Resources Authority to ensure they fulfill energy performance rules.
On the other hand, an EPC rates the energy performance of any new building, by indicating the efficiency of the building just like energy labels on appliances.
Rating depends on the construction materials used, insulation levels, ventilation and air tightness features, heating and cooling systems, and the type of lighting.
A high rating can be useful to make a property with low energy costs more attractive to buyers.
While Malta is still dragging its feet in enforcing these laws, by 2020 all European buildings will have to consume “nearly zero” energy.
The public sector will have to lead the way by owning and renting buildings with “nearly zero” levels by the end of 2018… even though the concept of “nearly zero” was left vague, allowing member states to define their own standards. jdebono@mediatoday.com.mt
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